OVERVIEW
With the third generation of Gina, Echo once again raises the bar on entry-level audio/MIDI interfaces. What separates Echo products from others on the market is their continued dedication to providing pro-quality features at a reasonable cost. The Gina 3G is no exception to this rule, with a spec list that outperforms all other audio/MIDI interfaces in the under $500 category. The one draw back to the Gina 3G is that it requires installation of an included PCI card for operation. While the installation process itself is easy, this means users of laptops, iMacs and other computers without a PCI slot cannot use the Gina. However for those with a PCI slot, consider this a rock solid hub for your home studio.

USES
• Sound recording & playback
• High Quality A/D (Analog-Digital) & D/A (Digital-Analog) conversion
• Multi-track recording, sequencing, editing and mixing (when combined with software)
• 8 output, "breakout" analog mixing
• Digital transfers
• LP to CD transfers

FEATURES
The Gina 3G is fully equipped for all 24bit/96kHz digital audio and MIDI recording scenarios. Analog connections include two (2) universal 1/4/XLR inputs each fitted with its own low-noise, phantom powered studio grade preamp and six (6) balanced 1/4" outputs. Digital connections include ADAT (light pipe) in and out (which will allow you to simultaneously record eight (8) tracks at once when used with other light pipe equipped devices) as well as both optical and coaxial S/PDIF stereo connections. Also included are MIDI in and out, and a headphone jack with individual level control. Echo's advantage over other hardware devices is most apparent in the high quality of its A/D (analog/digital) and D/A converters, which out perform all other interface converters in the same class on both paper and to the ear.

Almost all-major recording/sequencing software (Cubase, Logic, LIVE, Reason, etc) is supported with the Gina 3G, with the exception of Protools (which requires Digidesign hardware). It also comes with a free copy of Mackie's Tracktion recording/sequencing software, which is laid out simply like a sophisticated version of Apple's Garage Band. Echo's own console software is included for mixing and monitoring your work and the Gina 3G can also support surround sound playback.

OUR OPINION
If you are looking for the best possible sound quality for your recording but are not willing to pay the extra $1000 for a separate converter unit, then the Gina 3G should be your choice. Analog to digital conversion is the most crucial stage in digital recording. The higher the quality of the converters you use, the better the dynamic range and less errors your recordings will have. While most budget interfaces have converters that will do the job well, none can match the quality of Echo products. Unfortunately Echo are yet to enter the USB/FireWire market, which means the Gina 3G can only be used with tower Mac's and PC's equipped with PCI card slots. Because of this, laptop and iMac users cannot use the Gina 3G.

• 2 auto-sensing universal inputs (mic/guitar/line): 110dB (A-weighted) dynamic range
• 2 studio quality Mic preamps with phantom power
• 6 balanced analog outputs: 114dB (A-weighted) dynamic range +4dBu / -10dBV nominal levels
• S/PDIF I/O (coax & optical) at 24-bit/96kHz
• ADAT optical digital I/O
• MIDI I/O

reviewed by the mgmnt